can be restricted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be restricted" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing limitations or constraints that can be applied to something. Example: "Access to certain files can be restricted based on user permissions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Ticket usage can be restricted.

Stanford University

Noisy aircraft can be restricted or even banned.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This can be restricted to one or the other by changing the "limits" or "values" option.

Harvard University

Our study showed that diagnostic hysteroscopy can be restricted to inconclusive or failed SCHS.

American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

In this way, the DOX release and uptake can be restricted to ultrasound-treated areas.

Molecular Therapy

But if that number can be restricted to 20 or 30, the organisers will consider they have won.

The Guardian

With the current drought conditions, watering is even more important, though it can be restricted by the authorities.

The New York Times

It can be restricted where, for example, it interferes with the rights of others or on public safety grounds.

The Guardian

Wiki spaces can be restricted to a small group of colleagues or can be opened up to the world.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

This ensemble can be restricted to biologically plausible models using requirements gleaned from in vivo perturbation experiments.

Princeton University

The information on this page can be restricted by platform and/or version number, or presented in XML format.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be restricted", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what is doing the restricting and why. Clarity enhances the message's impact and credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "can be restricted" excessively in sentences where an active voice would be more direct and engaging. For instance, instead of "Access can be restricted by the administrator", consider "The administrator can restrict access".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be restricted" functions as a passive voice construction, indicating the possibility of limitations or constraints being applied. Ludwig confirms its correctness. The examples show how this phrase is used to describe conditions where something is subject to control or limitation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

49%

News & Media

28%

Academia

19%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be restricted" is a grammatically sound and frequently used passive voice construction that indicates something is subject to potential limitations or constraints. Ludwig confirms this, with numerous real-world examples showcasing its versatility. While it's most common in scientific, news, and academic contexts, writers should be mindful of clarity and consider using the active voice for more directness. Remember that while "can be restricted" implies a possibility of limitation, phrases like "must be restricted" indicate a necessity. By understanding these nuances, you can effectively communicate limitations in various situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

may be limited

Implies a potential constraint, similar to "can be restricted" but slightly less forceful.

could be curtailed

Suggests a reduction or cutting back, similar to restricting but focused on decreasing quantity or scope.

might be constrained

Indicates a limitation imposed by external factors or circumstances.

is subject to limitations

More formal and explicitly states that limitations apply.

is liable to be limited

Implies a higher probability of restriction compared to 'may be limited'.

can be kept within bounds

Focuses on maintaining something within specified limits, implying a form of control.

can be held in check

Suggests active control to prevent exceeding limits.

can be regulated

Implies a formal system of rules and procedures to control or limit.

can be moderated

Focuses on keeping something within a reasonable or acceptable range.

can be adjusted

Suggests a modification to stay within limits.

FAQs

How can I use "can be restricted" in a sentence?

The phrase "can be restricted" indicates that something is subject to limitations or constraints. For example, "Access to the building "can be restricted" after midnight", or "The number of participants "can be restricted" due to space limitations."

What are some alternatives to "can be restricted"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "may be limited", "could be curtailed", or "might be constrained" to express similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

Is it better to use the active or passive voice with "can be restricted"?

While "can be restricted" is grammatically correct in the passive voice, using the active voice can often make your writing more direct and engaging. For example, instead of "Use 'The administrator "can restrict"' instead of 'access "can be restricted"'."

What's the difference between "can be restricted" and "must be restricted"?

"Can be restricted" implies that there is a possibility or option to impose limitations, while "must be restricted" indicates a necessity or requirement for limitations to be in place. The choice depends on the level of obligation or certainty you wish to convey.